2014 Countdown to Kickoff

New faces and returning veterans will challenge for titles in both sections of the Berks Football League. If nothing else, a new season promises to be competitive.

In Section I, the now annual challenge of unseating Governor Mifflin, who is seeking its fifth straight title, could come down to the season’s final weeks. In Section II, Berks Catholic will aim to defend its crown with a host of new faces.

Could Section I be a wide-open race if Governor Mifflin isn’t in form? It appears so. We’ll give early nods to Exeter, who returns plenty on offense, and Conrad Weiser, who will put much of its hope in returning 1,000-yard back Alex Guilbe.

Big Games:

It isn’t out of the question that the section crown could be up for grabs in October, thanks to a back loaded league schedule for all of its top contenders.

On Oct. 3, an early heavyweight bout between Exeter and Conrad Weiser may have plenty of playoff implications four weeks early. If Governor Mifflin is to repeat, it will have to navigate back-to-back heavy hitters. It travels to Muhlenberg Oct. 17 before hosting Exeter Oct. 24.

Survive it, and Governor Mifflin may be well on its way to another championship. It doesn’t get an easier, though, as a home date with Weiser Oct. 31 closes out the season.

If anyone is going to get by Governor Mifflin, they’ll also get by Jan Johnson.

The do-everything Mustang quarterback was received all-league nods on all three teams (quarterback, linebacker, and punter) and thus must be considered the early favorite. The section packs plenty of talent, though. Exeter quarterback Chase Yocum, Mifflin’s Wilson Alvarez, and Guilbe stand out.

Players to Watch:

If there’s just one top player, there’s plenty that just missed the cut.